Excitement of watching wildlife

The bittern is an iconic bird, much admired by birdwatchers across the land. Many, though, have yet to see the bird in the wild. The bittern has featured in a number of wildlife programs recently. The presenters setting out to spot the diminutive bird but on most occasions failing - not great TV you might think! But the magic of the bird remains. A brown streaked bird that merges in perfectly amongst the reeds where it lives. The bittern is a member of the heron family, being slightly smaller in size than the grey herons that are so plentiful in Wanstead Park and along the River Roding. The bittern was threatened with extinction a few years ago but has made a great recovery with the help of conservationists. The bittern was a bird that I had longed to see for many a year. Three years ago I was lucky enough to briefly spot one at Rye Harbour in Sussex. At the time, I had almost given up hope, despite hearing the characteristic booming for days. Then, suddenly one rose out of the reed bed, flew a short distance and disappeared into another mass of reeds. All over in a minute, but what a view! It was an exciting moment. Unfortunately, that was my one and only sighting. Bitterns, though, have been seen at the Fisher Green reserve in Cheshunt, with occasional visitors at other places around London. Norfolk is a favourite place. Local birders here hold out hopes that one might one day come to reeds around Wanstead but better not hold your breath. It is a special moment, when you spot a creature in the wild that you have never seen before. A few years ago, I remember first seeing a kingfisher, that flash of emerald back and bronze chest flying down the river. Then, another, sitting on a branch. There have been a few sightings now over the years but it is still always exciting to see the little bird in action. A most recent wildlife spot was an otter, not, unfortunately on the River Roding (not for want of trying). This was an early morning in Oxfordshire, in a pool just off the Thames. Rings of water and then three otters appeared, one out of the water, the other two heads just showing - it was a great moment. I live in hope of seeing one of the Roding otters soon! There really is some fantastic wildlife around this area, so get out and have a look. Not every trip will be successful, indeed most won't. But that occasion when you see your first otter, bittern, kingfisher, or something else altogether will live with you for ever. It will be a really great moment to savour.